In case you don't know (because I have been so bloggin' MIA lately), I am gearing up for my first 50k trail race this weekend.

There have been ups and downs along the way including the crazy hot summer and the return of my leg/hip pain from last summer about 2 months ago. I did take time off, but I am still not 100%. The stubborn part of me doesn't really care and I will KT tape and be on my merry way.

So why all of these feelings?? I have this thing.. called pride. I think it's my dad's fault that I cry when I am proud because quite honestly, he has held back tears (not so successfully) at almost every activity in my life. When he saw me play in marching band, he would cry. When I sang at church, he would tear up. And now, as an adult into running, he tears up when I cross the finish line. My dad, although never one to express pride or much emotion verbally, sure does show it on the outside and I know he is proud of me. I am telling you this not to throw him under the bus, but to explain that I am the same way.

When I think about crossing that finish line Sunday I get teary-eyed. A lot of hard work goes into preparing for long distance races, and even more hard work is required to actually GET you to the finish line. It's not for everyone and a lot of us get called crazy for our love for long (or ultra long) distance, but runners get it. We work hard, play harder!

I think overall, I am mostly excited. I am excited to step up to that starting line and set out to accomplish the BIGGEST goal I have set for myself yet. You guys. I started this year telling myself I was going to run a 50k trail race and in just a few days I get to make that a reality. This is insane.

I am going to soak up every mile. I am going to breathe in all of that fresh air. I am going to hopefully eat some good treats along the way. Maybe make a new friend or two. I know I will see lots of beauty in nature and snap some pictures along the way.

Most of all, I am going to do myself a solid and make it to that finish line while having the most fun I possibly can. It will not be a fast "race." But it is sure to be a lesson in life and all that I am capable of.

Comments

Best of luck at the race this weekend! How exciting to run your first 50k - the first time running any distance is always such an accomplishment but a 50k is epic. A lot of hard work goes into training for that sort of distance so enjoy the journey and savor the finish!